Head of Design Salary in Grand Forks, North Dakota

Grand Forks has a strong presence in education and healthcare, with the University of North Dakota as a major employer. Design salaries run slightly lower than Fargo. Cost of living remains affordable.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,000 to $108,000

Average (per year)

$98,000

Recent University of North Dakota graduates and small‑agency hires often fill entry roles.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$109,000 to $127,000

Average (per year)

$118,000

Education, healthcare, and local government projects provide positions for mid-level employees.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$128,000 to $145,000

Average (per year)

$136,000

Senior designers support regional healthcare systems and manage teams for digital agencies.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$146,000+

Principal and lead designers advise the largest local institutions and consult for state‑wide initiatives.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$48 - $72

per hour

Mid-level

$73 - $108

per hour

Senior

$109 - $155

per hour